The Elders welcome US-North Korea agreement on nuclear moratorium and food aid to North Korean people

The Elders welcome the news that North Korea has agreed to suspend its nuclear activities. They also commend the United States on its decision to send much-needed food aid to the North Korean population, and express hope that dialogue and trust-building between the two countries can be sustained.

The Elders welcome the announcement on 29 February that the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) has agreed to a moratorium on uranium enrichment, nuclear tests and long-range missile launches, as well as to allow the return of inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Former US President Jimmy Carter said:

“The moratorium is a welcome and necessary first step towards the full denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula, which is essential for stability and lasting peace in the region.

“I am encouraged by the willingness of the new North Korean leadership to reengage with the international community. The Elders hope this agreement will lead to full compliance with prior commitments by all parties.”

The announcement follows three rounds of talks between US and North Korean officials since July 2011, the latest of which was held in Beijing on 23-24 February.

The Elders also commend the United States for agreeing to send a proposed package of 240,000 tonnes of food aid to North Korea, in the form of nutritional assistance for the most vulnerable sectors of its population.

“The proposed US food aid is a welcome recognition of genuine humanitarian need in North Korea,” said former Norwegian Prime Minister, Dr Gro Brundtland, a medical doctor by profession who visited North Korea as part of an Elders delegation in April 2011.

She added: “The Elders have repeatedly emphasised the need for external assistance to help address the serious food shortages in North Korea.”

Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland, said:

“Full transparency is needed in relation to the food and health situation in North Korea. In our discussions with North Korean officials, we emphasised that there must be adequate monitoring arrangements in place to ensure food aid reaches its intended recipients, especially young children and pregnant women.

“To address chronic food insecurity and related health problems, we also call on the authorities in Pyongyang to adopt practical measures to improve the wellbeing of the North Korean people.”

The Elders are encouraged that US and North Korean officials have stated their intention to continue bilateral talks and are willing to take other reciprocal steps aimed at improving their relations.

Former President of Finland Martti Ahtisaari said:

“This week’s agreement between the US and North Korea is just a beginning. It is important to sustain this incipient dialogue, to build trust and confidence between the parties, reduce tensions and eventually address all outstanding issues on the Korean Peninsula.”

The Elders are independent global leaders, brought together by Nelson Mandela, who offer their collective influence and experience to support peace building, help address major causes of human suffering and promote the shared interests of humanity.